Concepts’ 1906U ‘Hours and Days’ Sneaker Reworks Their 999 ‘SEAL’ Collaboration From 2012
Concepts and New Balance are revisiting a collaboration from 2012 for their new 1906R sneaker.
The Concepts x New Balance 1906U “Hours and Days” reworks elements from their 999 “SEAL,” which itself was inspired by the OTB Abyss II boots worn by Navy SEALs. The newer sneaker makes use of the same assortment of colors with grey, cream, khaki and shades of blue. Green has now been been added for another pop of color, while the blocking is asymmetrical on the shoe’s lateral and medial sides, with the former featuring reflective silver overlays that shine when hit with light. Like its predecessor, the 1906R features a topographical map insole, although the graphic doesn’t continue onto the sockliner as before.
The “Hours and Days” theme channels the benefits of self-care and exercise that can be more fully appreciated over the passage of time. For the sneaker’s campaign, Concepts cast Robert “The Raven” Kraft, who has ran eight miles in the sand on Miami Beach every evening since January 1, 1975. For the first eight years, Kraft took his runs alone. But now more than 2,500 people have completed eight miles with him to be added to his “Raven List.”
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“Once I heard about Raven and his story, it felt right to include him in our campaign,” Concepts creative director Deon Point said in a press release. It all started to make sense in bridging the gap between old and new with our bring back of the SEAL.”
Starring alongside Kraft is Tashawn “Thai” Richards, a New York City-based marathon runner and founder of Rage and Release, a platform that combines fitness and cannabis use.
The Concepts x New Balance 1906U “Hours and Days” sneaker will release Friday, August 2, exclusively through Concepts’ website and app. Pricing is set at $175.
About the Author:
Ian Servantes is a Senior News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.
